A serious incident occurred in Maryville, Tennessee, on Friday night when two law enforcement vehicles collided while escorting Vice President JD Vance’s motorcade. The crash involved a state trooper and a motorcycle officer from the Maryville Police Department, resulting in one officer being hospitalized in critical condition.
Authorities reported that the collision took place approximately 17 miles south of Knoxville. Following the incident, one of the ambulances that was part of the vice president’s motorcade promptly provided medical assistance to the injured officer. Special Agent Jason Pack, the director of communications for the Tennessee Department of Safety, confirmed this in a statement to CBS News.
The Maryville police department reported the officer’s critical condition through social media. In a show of support, Police Chief Tony Crisp urged the community to keep the officer, their family, and medical staff in their thoughts and prayers.
There was some initial confusion regarding the trooper’s injury. Although Pack indicated that the trooper was not transported for medical care, the city later clarified that both the trooper and the injured officer were taken to the University of Tennessee Medical Center for evaluation. Details regarding the condition of the trooper remain unknown.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash are being led by the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Katherine Pierce, the U.S. Secret Service’s resident agent in charge in Knoxville, assured that the safety and movement of the protectees were unaffected by the incident.
This incident highlights the risks faced by law enforcement, especially when involved in high-profile security operations. The community is hopeful for a swift recovery for the officer and remains supportive during this challenging time.